Container Rentals: The Ultimate Guide To Renting Shipping and Storage Containers

If you decide to rent a shipping or storage container for moving house, starting a renovation project, or some extra space to store your belongings, you’ve landed on the right page. In this guide on container rentals, we’ll explore the ins and outs of this unique industry.

Why Rent A Shipping Container?

More and more homeowners, business owners, and contractors are exploring the benefits of shipping containers for their storage and space needs. And instead of buying containers, people are more likely to rent them. But why do so? Well, let’s compare buying and renting.

Renting Vs. Buying Storage Containers

Both options have their pros and cons, but here are some reasons why renting may be your best bet:

• Flexibility. Renting a shipping container offers an unmatched level of flexibility. Need it for a short-term gig? No problem. Not sure how long you’ll need it? That’s okay too. You can simply rent a container for the duration you require and return it when you’re done. Flexible rental durations are ideal for those who have fluctuating storage needs.
• Cost-effectiveness. If you’re only needing a container for a short while, renting can save your money. No massive upfront costs, and no stress about selling it off later.
• Variety. One size doesn’t fit all, and that’s why there is an array of containers for all your storage needs. Plus, you can try out different sizes to see what fits your needs best.
• Maintenance-free. When you rent, you don’t have to worry about maintaining the container or fixing it if something breaks. The rental company handles all of that due to constant container inspections. Moreover, you can ask your company for some maintenance tips for additional peace of mind.
• Convenience. Renting equals convenience, so the container is delivered straight to your doorstep. You don’t have to lift a finger and therefore, save your time and effort.
• Eco-friendly practices. If you care about Mother Earth (and who doesn’t?), renting is a great eco-friendly choice. Instead of buying a brand new container, you’re using one that’s already out there, reducing your environmental footprint.
• Upgradability. Your needs might change, and that’s why you may need a bigger container or one with different features. When you’re renting, you can easily upgrade or change your container.

So, renting a shipping container is a fantastic option if you need a practical solution for your storage needs without the commitment of buying.

Common Uses For Rented Shipping And Storage Containers

Shipping and storage containers are incredibly versatile, practical sustainable building solutions, ready for just about anything. Wondering what you could do with a rented container? Here are some common innovative uses that might give you a few ideas.

• Temporary storage. If you need a place to store your stuff during a home renovation or a move, a storage container can keep your belongings secure, like your own portable garage.
• Construction site storage. A shipping container can house tools, equipment, supplies, and other construction essentials. Plus, it’s lockable, so you can keep your valuable items protected.
• Pop-up shops and restaurants. Who said containers are only for storage? Your imagination and creativity can turn them into unique retail spaces or trendy pop-up restaurants. It’s a cost-effective way to start a business and stand out from the crowd.
• Event staging. A container can be used as a backstage area, ticket booth, or even a stage for organizing a concert, festival, or sports event.
• Emergency shelters. In the wake of a disaster, shipping containers can be temporary housing or emergency aid stations as they’re robust, transportable, and can be set up in no time.
• Art studios or workshops. You can transform your shipping container into a spacious and customizable art studio or workshop.
• School or office space. Need more room in your school or office? A container can be converted into additional classrooms, offices, or even libraries.

Shipping and storage containers — they’re not just for freight anymore, they’re for innovative uses as well. You can transform these sustainable building solutions into anything you desire without spending much money, as renting is a more affordable option than buying. Intrigued? Let’s select the best container for all your shipping and storage needs, as well as various possible customization options.

Choose Your Rental Container Size

There are several rental container sizes for all your unique needs.

10 Ft. Shipping Container Rentals

10 ft shipping container rentals are compact, yet spacious solutions. Don’t let their size fool you — these containers may be small, but they are mighty in their capacity to serve your various requirements.

10 ft containers offer ample room to comfortably store your furniture, clothing, electronics, or inventory, ensuring everything is kept safe. Additional security measures are provided by high-quality steel these containers are typically made from so that they’re sturdy, durable, and weather-resistant. They feature double doors for easy access, a wooden floor, and ventilation to prevent moisture build-up.

Despite their compact size, these containers offer approximately 560 cubic feet of storage space, which is enough to hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. But it’s not just about storage. Maybe you’re an artist seeking a creative studio, a startup needing an affordable office, or a community organizer planning a local event. 10 ft containers can transform into the ideal space for you.

20 Ft. Shipping Container Rentals

As a reliable and roomy storage solution, 20ft shipping containers can handle just about anything you throw at them.

Constructed from high-quality Corten steel, these containers withstand the elements and the test of time. But they’re not just tough on the outside. Inside, they offer a generous amount of space for all your storage needs. With an internal length of 19 feet and width of 7 feet, you’ll have plenty of room to store everything from personal belongings to business inventory.

And let’s not forget about security measures. 20ft containers have double doors that ensure easy access while keeping your items secure. Plus, each container is equipped with two locking bars for added peace of mind.

40 Ft. Shipping Container Rentals

If you need some serious space, you’re going to love the 40ft shipping containers. They’ve got room for everything — we’re talking the same amount of stuff as a three-bedroom house or a sizable office.

These containers are tough as nails, too. As their 20ft counterparts, they’re made from this super-durable Corten steel, so they can handle pretty much any weather. Plus, they come with a lockbox, so your stuff is extra secure.

Creativity-wise, the 40 ft container gives you more space to play with. Their extra length allows you various customization options — you can turn them into a home, a pop-up shop, or even a swimming pool.

45 Ft. Shipping Container Rentals

The 45 ft shipping container is the monster of all containers. This big option isn’t just large, it’s extra-large with an additional five feet in length compared to the standard 40-footer. It’s practically a warehouse on wheels.

Imagine all the bulky cargo you can fit into this beast — from furniture to machinery. But it’s not just about size. Its durable steel body, corrugated walls, and heavy-duty wood floors make it truly long-lasting. And the doors? They swing open a full 270 degrees, so loading and unloading is an easy task.

Moreover, due to rigorous container inspections, these gigantic containers are guaranteed to be secure and watertight, so your stuff stays safe and dry.

However, container size is not the only factor to consider when choosing a shipping container. Another important thing is the container style.

Select A Shipping Container Style

Selecting the style of your shipping container is a bit like choosing your favorite pair of jeans — it needs to be the perfect fit for your personality and requirements. First, consider two key factors — height and doors of a container.

Height

Let’s talk about the height of our containers. There are usually three main types lined up for you: standard, high cube, and open-top.

• Think of standard containers as the reliable workhorse in the shipping industry. They come in three sizes: 10-foot, 20-foot, and 40-foot, perfect for all your general storage and transport needs.
• If you wish for a little more headroom, explore high cube containers. They’ve got everything you love about our standard containers but with an extra foot of height.
• Now, let’s talk about the rebels of the container world — open-top containers. Instead of a fixed roof, they sport a removable cover.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to containers. Each type has a unique charm and functionality. Try to find the one that suits your needs.

Doors

Doors and access points are a little bit different for each container type. Standard and high cube containers welcome you in from the side — they have side shutter doors, which make it super easy to load and unload your stuff.

Open-top containers provide you with access not just from the sides, but also from the top, so you can easily hoist your tall, non-standard items from there.

Now that you know everything about container size and style, it’s time to select container rental accessories.

Container Rental Accessories

Container rental accessories are additional items that you can rent along with your container to make it more functional and convenient for your specific needs. Let’s explore two key container rental accessories: door handle extenders and ramps.

Door handle extenders

Imagine this: you’re in the middle of a busy workday, and you need to access your container. You reach for the door handle, but it’s just a little too short, making it harder than it needs to be. In this case, door handle extenders can help.

These nifty devices are like extensions for your container door handles. They attach to the existing handle, providing a longer grip that makes opening and closing the doors a whole lot easier. They’re also a boon for those who may struggle with mobility issues.

Ramps

Container ramps are essentially inclined planes that bridge the gap between the ground and the floor of your container. They are sturdy, reliable, and can withstand heavy loads. Moreover, they accommodate wheeled equipment like trolleys and pallet trucks, helping you move items in and out of your container. Think about the time and energy you could save!

Container ramps also offer a stable pathway, reducing the risk of accidents that can occur when trying to lift heavy objects manually. It’s a simple extra accessory that can make a significant difference.

These container rental accessories can take your shipping container from good to great. So why not give them a try? Let’s find out how they (and your container, of course) can be delivered straight to your doorstep.

Renting And Shipping Container Delivery

Once you’ve selected your desired container size, style, and accessories, it’s time to arrange delivery. The delivery process is usually the same for many companies:

• Once you’ve dotted the i’s and crossed the t’s on your rental agreement, choose a delivery date that works best for you. The logistics team will then ensure your container arrives on the specified date.
• Companies usually provide their clients with tracking info so you can follow your container’s adventure from a facility to your place.
• On the day of delivery, expert drivers will park your container right where you want it, as long as it’s safe and accessible.
• Once your rental durations are over, just let the company know. They’ll set up a pick-up date that works for you and take care of the rest.

Now let’s find out how to get your site ready for your storage container rental.

Site Selection And Prep For Storage Container Rentals

It is important to ensure that your container feels right at home and works seamlessly for you.

Here’s how you can prep your space for staging a container:

• Containers love flat surfaces — it keeps them stable and secure. Consider gravel, concrete, or even compacted dirt.
• Clear away any low branches, power lines, or anything else that could play spoilsport during the container’s grand arrival.
• Think about how you will use your container. If you’re going to pop in and out frequently, make sure the doors are placed in a convenient way.
• If your chosen spot gets waterlogged, consider adding some gravel or using concrete footings. This will prevent your container from sinking or leaning.
• Some local laws or housing rules may have something to say about storage containers. It’s always a smart move to check these before you settle on a spot.

We’re always here to help if you need any guidance on choosing and prepping your site or even container maintenance tips, so don’t hesitate to ask for our assistance. We promise to make your container rental experience as smooth as a sail on a calm sea.